The American Fire Sprinkler Association announced the schedule for its 2008 Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School offering focused training on sprinkler system layout. The remaining classes for 2008 are: March 3-14; April 14-25; May 12-23; June 16-27; July 14-25; Aug. 11-22; Sept. 22-Oct. 3; and Nov. 3-14.

The Beginning Fire Sprinkler System Planning School, held at AFSA’s training center in Dallas, presents a practical, comprehensive approach to preparing fire sprinkler system drawings. Students receive two full weeks of instruction: 60 percent is study and review of NFPA 13 (2007 ed.), and 40 percent is preparation of fire sprinkler system layout, shop drawings and hydraulic calculations. This class is geared toward those with no experience or those who need assistance with design.

Attendees are given the tools to accelerate the comprehension of plans and various types of building construction for proper sprinkler spacing applications; determine the proper and economical planning of fire sprinkler system layout and installation methods; know the importance of sprinkler specifications, types of pipe, hangers, fittings, flow tests, etc.; learn to develop shop drawings from start to finish; learn to coordinate with other trades such as plumbing, mechanical, structural and electrical; perform manual hydraulic calculations, preparing the student for an easier decision-making process when using a computer to perform hydraulics; and prepare shop drawings in class for projects with different applications.

With a maximum enrollment of 18 students per school, early registration is encouraged. Registration costs $1,100 for AFSA members and $1,600 for nonmembers. Enrollment is open to AFSA Contractor Members only until six weeks prior to each session, and registrations may only be made in writing.

Download a registration form at www.firesprinkler.org. For additional details, contact Leslie Joplin at ljoplin@firesprinkler.org or call 214/349-5965, ext. 130.